Rent Repayment Order FAQ

It is a legal order issued by a Tribunal that forces a landlord to pay back rent to a tenant because they broke specific housing laws.

• For issues from 1 May 2026 onwards: you can claim up to 24 months of rent, and you have 2 years to apply.
• For older issues (before May 2026): you can claim up to 12 months of rent, and you must apply within 12 months.

The most common reasons include:

• Running an unlicensed property (such as an HMO that requires a council licence but doesn't have one)
• Illegal eviction or severe tenant harassment
• Using or threatening violence to enter your home
• Ignoring formal council safety improvement notices

Yes, but only for the money you paid out of your own pocket. You cannot claim back the portion of rent covered by the government.

Example: if your monthly rent is £1,000, and Universal Credit pays £600 while you pay £400, your maximum claim is based on your £400 share. This is a simplified example to illustrate the principle — the Tribunal decides the exact amount based on the specific facts of each case, and outcomes can vary.

It costs £114 to submit an application, plus £227 if it goes to a hearing — £341 in total.

If you're on a low income or receive means-tested benefits, you can apply for a full fee waiver using Form EX160 alongside your claim.

You need clear, factual proof to support your claim. This includes:

• Your signed tenancy agreement
• Bank statements showing every rent payment made
• Official proof of the offence (such as written confirmation from the council that the property lacked a mandatory licence)

Not necessarily. The Tribunal can decide many cases on paper, based on the written evidence alone, without a hearing — this is often the recommended option when the facts aren't in dispute.

If your case is more complex or contested, a hearing may be needed so the Tribunal can hear directly from both sides.